Eating one banana a day can cut risk of silent killer with no clear symptoms

31 August 2023 , 13:24

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Most don't even know they have the condition that causes heart attacks and strokes (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Eating this healthy snack every single day could cut down your risk of a deadly silent killer with no clear symptoms.

High blood pressure is the cause for half of all heart attacks and strokes, with one in three Brits suffering from the condition. Also known as hypertension, it's thought that a staggering five million people go undiagnosed.

Most don't even know they have the condition, which is why the NHS is now about to roll out checks in supermarkets and barbershops. This move alone is hoped to prevent as many as 1,300 heart attacks and strokes.

If you get the chance, health experts are urging people to take up the offer. In the meantime, however, there are a few ways you can reduce your chances of the silent killer, one of which is very simple.

In 2022, scientists from Holland claimed that foods high in potassium cancel out the impact of consuming too much sodium, particularly in women. Their study of almost 25,000 older British people showed that those who regularly ate potassium-rich food were 13 per cent less likely to end up having a heart attack or stroke.

Surprising symptom that 40% of women suffer weeks before a heart attack

One such snack is a banana. So make sure you stock up on these the next time you pop to the shops. Other foods that can also reduce the risk include leafy greens, salmon, tuna, beans, apricots and avocados.

What are the causes of high blood pressure?

While there are a lack of clear symptoms, there are certain factors that can increase your risk. The British Heart Foundation lists a number of reasons, including if you:

• are over the age of 65
• have someone in your family with high blood pressure
• are someone who smokes
• drink too much alcohol
• eat too much salt and not enough fruit and vegetables
• don't get enough exercise
• are overweight, especially around your mid-section.

People living in deprived areas are also at higher risk of having high blood pressure, as well as people who are of black African or black Caribbean descent. Changes in your diet and increasing activity levels will help improve your blood pressure.

Hannah Kane